Michael Jackson’s creative prowess broke the previously known limits of what artists were known to be able to do. His influence as a worldwide phenomenon was catapulted to that stage because of his trailblazing spirit and his willingness to think outside the box. Using groundbreaking music, dance, and performances to captivate audiences (and me since my years as a toddler), his process of creativity is one to marvel and analyze.
In regards to Augustin Fuentes’ The Creative Spark, Michael Jackson definitely exhibits two major concepts of creativity that are discussed in the book. Fuentes argues that creativity is a defining characteristic of the human experience and more specifically, human evolution. In the book, he further elaborates that creativity is about not just personal artistic expressions but also how individuals can acclimate themselves to new environments, and push boundaries in a variety of ways.
From this, the creative sub-process of collaboration and social interaction is an idea that Michael Jackson exemplified well in his career. Using the collective efforts of experts such as Quincy Jones (producer), Michael Peters (choreographer), and even his brothers as part of the Jackson 5, he blended existing styles of pop, rock, Motown, and R&B to create something new. Just like Fuentes elaborated on, Jackson understood that human creativity blossoms in environments where people exchange ideas and challenge each other to push beyond what is the current industry standard.
Additionally, Fuentes also discusses how a key part of creativity is the process of risk-taking. Michael Jackson constantly did this, with an example being his music videos setting the new standard for that sector as the creation of mini-movies. In regards to his dance, which captivated me the most, he utilized a seldom-used and crisp form of popping and locking within very simple movements to leave audiences in awe - along with the usual showstoppers of the “lean” and of course, his moonwalk.
His creative prowess is what initially inspired me to dance, and I hope other artists can try to create what he did for me, for others. I truly believe that he is the greatest and most recognizable solo-artist of all time, and that was in part due to his ability to collaborate with the right people and take risks.
Michael Jackson is most certainly one of the greatest creatives the pop scene has ever experienced. Growing up, Michael Jackson and his many CDs were a staple in my household. I even remember learning the thriller dance with my mom for Halloween one year. The first mp3 player I had was loaded with Jackson's solo career as well as the Jackson 5. He is definitely an inspiration to many.
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